Month: February 2023

Blog for Podcast #67 (End times within the Body of Christ)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

I have been reluctant to accept the truth of what I now know I must accept as fact. In previous podcast I have described who are the lukewarm. I have done studies on the behavior of those about you to show that we are nearing the return of our Savior Jesus Christ.

But what is this fact that I have been reluctant to accept. I will show it from the Bible.

In the letter that James wrote. His emphasis was on the behavior of and to the rich over those that truly needed to be looked after. Now I must say this once again. The letters that make up most of the New Testament is a manual on how we as Christians should seek to behave. Not only to God, but to all humanity be they a child of God or those that denied Him.

James 4:1-4 – What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don’t they come from the evil desires at war within you? 2 You want what you don’t have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can’t get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask God for it. 3 And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure. 4 You adulterers! Don’t you realize that friendship with the world makes you an enemy of God? I say it again: If you want to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God.

This letter is not talking to those that had not accepted Christ. It is to those that had become saved. That were filled with the Holy Spirit. Yet what is the questions that is asked in verses one and two of chapter four. They are behaving like they are of the world. Which is made clear in verse four, which we will visit again in the KJV:

James 4:4 – Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.

Yet they were saved. But James calls them the enemy of God. How can this be?

Because salvation can be lost as I have shown in other studies.

Someone argues: “They were never saved!”

Romans 10:9-10 – If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.

That statement of protest is shown here to be a false teaching. For if someone says with all their heart and soul that they accept Jesus Christ as their Savior they are saved.

Then these people turned away from Christ. They abandoned their salvation. So those that teach once saved always saved is also teaching a false doctrine.

By teaching this falsehood they cause this to happen:

1 John 2:7-17 – Dear friends, I am not writing a new commandment for you; rather it is an old one you have had from the very beginning. This old commandment—to love one another—is the same message you heard before. 8 Yet it is also new. Jesus lived the truth of this commandment, and you also are living it. For the darkness is disappearing, and the true light is already shining. 9 If anyone claims, “I am living in the light,” but hates a fellow believer, that person is still living in darkness. 10 Anyone who loves a fellow believer is living in the light and does not cause others to stumble. 11 But anyone who hates a fellow believer is still living and walking in darkness. Such a person does not know the way to go, having been blinded by the darkness. 12 I am writing to you who are God’s children because your sins have been forgiven through Jesus. 13 I am writing to you who are mature in the faith because you know Christ, who existed from the beginning. I am writing to you who are young in the faith because you have won your battle with the evil one. 14 I have written to you who are God’s children because you know the Father. I have written to you who are mature in the faith because you know Christ, who existed from the beginning. I have written to you who are young in the faith because you are strong. God’s word lives in your hearts, and you have won your battle with the evil one. 15 Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 16 For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. 17 And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.

Note how John frames this section of the letter He wrote. He says he is writing to the young and old in Christ. So, these are the saved, then he goes on to say this. I will use the KJV here:

1 John 2:15-17 – Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

Now remember John was a disciple of Christ. One of the Twelve. He personally knew Jesus Christ and saw Him before and after the cross. As well as saw Jesus ascend into Heaven. And he is telling those that are saved not to love the world.

But if they are saved why worry about this?

Because John was there when Christ taught John 15:1-10 and John knew that salvation can be taken away by those that return to the world. Just as Peter knew this as well:

2 Peter 2:20-22 – And when people escape from the wickedness of the world by knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and then get tangled up and enslaved by sin again, they are worse off than before. 21 It would be better if they had never known the way to righteousness than to know it and then reject the command they were given to live a holy life. 22 They prove the truth of this proverb: “A dog returns to its vomit.” And another says, “A washed pig returns to the mud.”

Therefore, if two of the disciples verified what Jesus Christ Himself stated. Then salvation can be taken away and as Peter said it would have been better if they had never known the way of righteousness. Now understand it is not God rejecting people. God will never turn away any. God loves all of humanity. Even those that reject Him out right. It is the people loving the things of the world. Choosing the world over Christ. They themselves are ending their salvation.

This is the state of most within the Body of Christ at this time. They are the living example of the last letter of the seven churches in the book of Revelation.

Revelation 3:14-22 – “Write this letter to the angel of the church in Laodicea. This is the message from the one who is the Amen—the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God’s creation: 15 “I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! 16 But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth! 17 You say, ‘I am rich. I have everything I want. I don’t need a thing!’ And you don’t realize that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked. 18 So I advise you to buy gold from me—gold that has been purified by fire. Then you will be rich. Also buy white garments from me so you will not be shamed by your nakedness, and ointment for your eyes so you will be able to see. 19 I correct and discipline everyone I love. So be diligent and turn from your indifference. 20 “Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends. 21 Those who are victorious will sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat with my Father on his throne. 22 “Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches.”

“You say, ‘I am rich. I have everything I want. I don’t need a thing!’ And you don’t realize that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked.”

Does this not go back to 1 John?

“Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.”

Yes, it does. And as was pointed out John was writing to those that were born again. To those that called themselves Christian.

We are not to seek after the things of the world. Yet millions that say they are “Christian” do just that. They are being a living example that the Bible is true and faithful. That Jesus Christ is soon to return.

The call is being shouted out. Christ is soon to return. Those that say they are Christian must abandon the things of the world. Be it houses, clothing, tattoos. Any luxuries or conveniences or comforts. We are not to store up money but to give most of it away. (2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Matthew 6:19-34)

However most that even hear this message will scoff at this and ignore these words. Because they are right with the Lord, in their own eyes.

But I have just shown they are not. I have just shown from John, from Peter they are not.

I will end today’s lesson with the rest of what John said in 1 John after his warning to not seek after those things of the world:

1 John 2:18-29 – Dear children, the last hour is here. You have heard that the Antichrist is coming, and already many such antichrists have appeared. From this we know that the last hour has come. 19 These people left our churches, but they never really belonged with us; otherwise they would have stayed with us. When they left, it proved that they did not belong with us. 20 But you are not like that, for the Holy One has given you his Spirit, and all of you know the truth. 21 So I am writing to you not because you don’t know the truth but because you know the difference between truth and lies. 22 And who is a liar? Anyone who says that Jesus is not the Christ. Anyone who denies the Father and the Son is an antichrist. 23 Anyone who denies the Son doesn’t have the Father, either. But anyone who acknowledges the Son has the Father also. 24 So you must remain faithful to what you have been taught from the beginning. If you do, you will remain in fellowship with the Son and with the Father. 25 And in this fellowship we enjoy the eternal life he promised us. 26 I am writing these things to warn you about those who want to lead you astray. 27 But you have received the Holy Spirit, and he lives within you, so you don’t need anyone to teach you what is true. For the Spirit teaches you everything you need to know, and what he teaches is true—it is not a lie. So just as he has taught you, remain in fellowship with Christ. 28 And now, dear children, remain in fellowship with Christ so that when he returns, you will be full of courage and not shrink back from him in shame. 29 Since we know that Christ is righteous, we also know that all who do what is right are God’s children.

God Bless

Blog for Podcast #142 (God Speaks in Dreams)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, Dreams, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

Job 33:14-16 NKJV – For God may speak in one way, or in another, Yet man does not perceive it. In a dream, in a vision of the night, When deep sleep falls upon men, While slumbering on their beds, Then He opens the ears of men, And seals their instruction.

Learning to understand how God talks to us is one of the most difficult things people need to learn and come to realize. His main mode of communication come from the Bible itself as witnessed with these verses here:

2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV – All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

However, as witnessed with the verses I started today’s study with we see that God uses dreams as well. Also, in these ends of days there will be those that experience visions.

Acts 2:17-21 NKJV – ‘AND IT SHALL COME TO PASS IN THE LAST DAYS, SAYS GOD, THAT I WILL POUR OUT OF MY SPIRIT ON ALL FLESH; YOUR SONS AND YOUR DAUGHTERS SHALL PROPHESY, YOUR YOUNG MEN SHALL SEE VISIONS, YOUR OLD MEN SHALL DREAM DREAMS. AND ON MY MENSERVANTS AND ON MY MAIDSERVANTS I WILL POUR OUT MY SPIRIT IN THOSE DAYS; AND THEY SHALL PROPHESY. I WILL SHOW WONDERS IN HEAVEN ABOVE AND SIGNS IN THE EARTH BENEATH: BLOOD AND FIRE AND VAPOR OF SMOKE. THE SUN SHALL BE TURNED INTO DARKNESS, AND THE MOON INTO BLOOD, BEFORE THE COMING OF THE GREAT AND AWESOME DAY OF THE LORD. AND IT SHALL COME TO PASS THAT WHOEVER CALLS ON THE NAME OF THE LORD SHALL BE SAVED.’

Which was foretold in the book of Joel chapter two verses twenty-eight through thirty-two.

When I was born again in 1984, I was given dreams by God that foretold of event that would transpire in the time we are now entering into. Since I am now in my sixties. Even though most of my dreams occurred in the eighties and nineties. I believed even then that I fulfilled these verses stating that “your old men shall dream dreams.”

But to get back on track.

Many now, mostly old men to keep inline with scripture are experiencing dreams. Yet they do not act upon them.

Why?

Because they are not aware that it is God speaking to them. Most people are illiterate when it comes to understanding how the Lord speaks to us. Mainly because they neglect that first area they should be reading to come to this knowledge. As said before and I will again. Reading the Bible. For how else can they come to not only grasping this information given to them from God. But also verifying that it does come form Him. For if it does not fall within what is already written inside the Bible it is not truly from God. For God does not contradict Himself.

Proverbs 30:5-6 NKJV – Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him. Do not add to His words, Lest He rebuke you, and you be found a liar.

And what is the fate of liars?

Revelation 21:8 NKJV – But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.”

So, for example, if someone says you can be rich in worldly wealth, they have lied to you. for this is what the Bible teaches:

Matthew 6:19-21 NKJV – “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

And:

1 Timothy 6:6-10 NKJV – Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

At this time, I wish to relate to you a dream I had in the late 1980s which goes in line with the teachings I have just shown from the Bible and you can see how it falls in line with the Word of God.

I found myself inside of a store, but the racks and shelves were ransacked. I was in chains and in a line. In front of me and behind were others, they all wore a grey jumper. I looked down and found myself to be wearing the same.

Several half-naked people that were mostly tattooed and pierced were directing us. One stood upon the top of the shelves shout and laughing as he lashed out with a whip. As it snapped, I heard him say:

“Where is your God now? Why doesn’t He come and get you?” He said things like this repeatedly as he herded the line toward the back of the store. Soon after a twelve-year-old boy, tattooed as the others, came running down one of the hallways made by the shelves. He stopped, as he laughed and held up by the hair the head of a woman and all those that were herding those in chains roared with laughter.

Once we reached our goal, I saw a line of cots set against the back wall and we, those chained together, were placed into these cots. After a time one by one the cots to my left were emptied, then it was my time. They made me get up and walk through a door at the back of the store. All went black.

Revelation 20:4 NKJV – And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for a thousand years.

Special note:  Again, I wish to state that I had this dream in the late 1980s. At that time tattoos had not become as prevalent as they are today. In addition, I had never heard of any other type of piercing then in the ear.

As to other aspects of this dream that can be scripturally verified.

The wearing of grey:

Revelation 3:15-21 NKJV – “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked— I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.

Being cold can be seen as being the color black. Being hot can be seen as the color white. Which means being lukewarm can be seen as the color grey.

Leviticus 19:28 NKJV – You shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor tattoo any marks on you: I am the LORD.

Again, I return to the main thing that needs to be not just read but studied is the Bible. Come to truly understand what words mean in the Bible to avoid misinterpretations.

I will give two prime examples.

The first to “abide.”

abide – G3306 – menó – to stay, remain, continue, dwell, endure

  1. dwell – to live in a place or in a particular way
    1. particular – distinguished or different from others or from the ordinary; noteworthy; marked; unusual.
  2. endure – to suffer something difficult, unpleasant, or painful.

The second “edifying.”

edifying – G3619 – the act of building; spiritual advancement; concretely

  1. spiritual advancement – means to move closer to God in understanding of the Word of God
  2. concretely – in a clear and definite way, or in a form that can be seen or felt

Many take “edifying” to mean for one’s benefit, to uplift, which is technically correct. But they misinterpret what the true “benefit,” the true “uplifting” is. Most apply it to a personal gain of some type, or emotional cheering up, but when it comes to seeking to be closer to God, we must remember the teachings from Christ Jesus:

Psalms 103:1-5 NKJV – A Psalm Of David. Bless the LORD, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, Who satisfies your mouth with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

Romans 12:1-8 NKJV – I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

Matthew 22:37-40 NKJV – Jesus said to him, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”

As you can see in the verses that were just read we see elements of both abiding and edifying within them. But we must also remember that to truly abide in God through Christ we must suffer as well, for if we do not suffer for His sake, we are not truly abiding in Him:

Matthew 5:10-12 NKJV – Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

2 Timothy 3:12 NKJV – Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.

Seek to learn how God is speaking to you. Verify anything you receive and make sure it fits what is truly taught by the Bible. If it is, expect to be persecuted for it. If you have missed the first returning of Christ, seek to be beheaded for His glory and refuse the mark of the beast.

God Bless

Blog for Podcast #141 (A Teaching about Tongues)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

There is a need to address an understanding of 1 Corinthians 14.

Why seek understanding of this chapter in the Bible?

I have come across those that have turned this teaching into a false doctrine that is leading many not into salvation, but damnation.

An additional clarifier: I have spoken in tongues when I was born again in 1984. I felt the pouring of the Holy Spirit fill me and I then began to speak in this divine language that very moment. Yet I did not nor do I do as those that have turned this into a false teaching.

So now let us begin this study:

1 Corinthians 14:1-2 NKJV – Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy. For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries.

“For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God.”

I centered in on this part for starts for a reason. When speaking in tongues it is a direct line of commination with God, which in essence is a type of prayer. So how are we taught by Christ to pray? I did a full podcast on this teaching in Podcast #103, but to summarize we are not to pray in public. Therefore, speaking in tongues should also be done in private.

Matthew 6:5-8 NKJV – “And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. “Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.

However, as shown here in 1 Corinthians 14 there is an exception. That of giving “prophecy.” As we go through this chapter we will see that there are ground rules required to give true verification that what is being given is truly from and for God. But that will be seen later so let us continue:

1 Corinthians 14:3-5 NKJV – But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men. He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied; for he who prophesies is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed he interprets, that the church may receive edification.

Here is the next important part of the teaching:

“I wish you all spoke with tongues.”

This means that we should seek to speak in tongues, but not all do. In the false doctrine being taught they state that ALL must speak in tongues. This is what labels this false teaching as just that: false. For look at this from the Bible about spiritual gifts:

1 Corinthians 12:1-11 NKJV – Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant: You know that you were Gentiles, carried away to these dumb idols, however you were led. Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit. There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.

Now here is another point that needs to be made, well actually two but we will address each in order:

“To another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues.”

the first of the two points is the statement “different kinds of tongues” to get some insight into that we must look to Pentecost:

Acts 2:1-7 NKJV – When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. And there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men, from every nation under heaven. And when this sound occurred, the multitude came together, and were confused, because everyone heard them speak in his own language. Then they were all amazed and marveled, saying to one another, “Look, are not all these who speak Galileans?

Mainly we see that speaking in tongues can be in languages that are spoken throughout the world, yet in normal circumstances the person speaking it has no knowledge of the language they speak when led by the Holy Spirit.

Next, we need to look at the word in the Greek:

 1 Corinthians 14:2 KJV – For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.

Unknown tongue – G1100 – glossa – the tongue, by implication a language

               a – language – a system of communication consisting of sounds, words, and grammar

Simple put truly speaking in the “unknown” tongue is still an actual language. Comprising of words and sentences.

I attendant a “church” that emphasized the need to speak in “tongues.” I went three times and heard the exact same sounds being made each and every time. Each time I heard it the more and more uneasy I felt.

In my private prayer life, where time to time I enter into speaking in tongues. It is usually different every time. Not always, but usually, for I do not have the same issues pressing upon me. Also, I can tell there are complete words and sentences being spoken.

the second point that is if there is prophecy it must have an interpretation. For without interpretation those present are not edified.

what does it mean to edify?

edifying – G3619 – oikodomé – confirmation, spiritual advancement

It is a confirmed message that help those present come closer to God. To be “confirmed” means it must work within the teaching that were given to all by Jesus Christ.

An example: if a message says you will become more finically solid soon. This is not a confirmed message for Christ teaches this:

Luke 16:13-15 NKJV – “No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” Now the Pharisees, who were lovers of money, also heard all these things, and they derided Him. And He said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God.

Since seeking after wealth is seen as an abomination in the sight of God this would be a false interpretation and so is not confirmed, nor is it truly edifying.

In the verses that follow we are given why it is important that we seek to have interpretation if tongues are spoken:

1 Corinthians 14:6-19 NKJV – But now, brethren, if I come to you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you unless I speak to you either by revelation, by knowledge, by prophesying, or by teaching? Even things without life, whether flute or harp, when they make a sound, unless they make a distinction in the sounds, how will it be known what is piped or played? For if the trumpet makes an uncertain sound, who will prepare for battle? So likewise you, unless you utter by the tongue words easy to understand, how will it be known what is spoken? For you will be speaking into the air. There are, it may be, so many kinds of languages in the world, and none of them is without significance. Therefore, if I do not know the meaning of the language, I shall be a foreigner to him who speaks, and he who speaks will be a foreigner to me. Even so you, since you are zealous for spiritual gifts, let it be for the edification of the church that you seek to excel. Therefore let him who speaks in a tongue pray that he may interpret. For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. What is the conclusion then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with the understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with the understanding. Otherwise, if you bless with the spirit, how will he who occupies the place of the uninformed say “Amen” at your giving of thanks, since he does not understand what you say? For you indeed give thanks well, but the other is not edified. I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all; yet in the church I would rather speak five words with my understanding, that I may teach others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue.

Who is speaking in tongue is important to?

1 Corinthians 14:20-25 NKJV – Brethren, do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be babes, but in understanding be mature. In the law it is written: “WITH MEN OF OTHER TONGUES AND OTHER LIPS I WILL SPEAK TO THIS PEOPLE; AND YET, FOR ALL THAT, THEY WILL NOT HEAR ME,” says the Lord. Therefore tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophesying is not for unbelievers but for those who believe. Therefore if the whole church comes together in one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those who are uninformed or unbelievers, will they not say that you are out of your mind? But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or an uninformed person comes in, he is convinced by all, he is convicted by all. And thus the secrets of his heart are revealed; and so, falling down on his face, he will worship God and report that God is truly among you.

This also emphasizes that speaking in tongues in public gets no true edification. Yet true prophecy, with true interpretation can cause someone coming into to a place receiving true prophecy will in most likelihood repent.

This also shows that true prophecy as shown earlier will cause spiritual growth. Therefore if people interpreting do not give a message of conviction. Are they truly giving something inspired by the Holy Spirit?

1 Corinthians 14:26-30 NKJV – How is it then, brethren? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret. But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God. Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others judge. But if anything is revealed to another who sits by, let the first keep silent.

These verses show how prophecy and interpretation are to work in a gathering of people. It is shown that it will not always be the same person every single time. That there must be more than one to and at the maximum three that speak in prophecy. If this criteria is not met we are to keep it to ourselves and not share it with others. We are to be silent.

For if it does not cause those listening to grow closer to God. It is not an edifying message. A truly “edifying” message may cause some to feel conviction. It may cause others to repent of their sins. It may cause others to accept Christ as their Savior. It will not make you feel good or make you think you are living right with God if you are going against the teachings given by Christ and His disciples in the New Testament. For true edification causes people to grow closer to Christ and become a true reflection of He who died upon the cross for our sins.

We are nearly out of time to commit ourselves to Jesus Christ and seek to become His true servants. Soon the Tribulation will begin and those that missed the first calling will have to suffer the torment and tortures of true and complete persecution at the hands of those that take the mark of Satan. Refuse the mark even if it means you must face starvation and die in pain. It is best to die this death than to face all eternity in the eternal and second death that is yet to be fully revealed. For Christ is quickly returning and only those that truly choose the difficult path will find eternal life.

God Bless

Blog for Podcast #140 (The Children)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Thoughts, , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

Psalms 127:3 NKJV – Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward.

Luke 17:2 NKJV – It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.

I started with these two verses for a reason. There are elements at work in this world that are seeking to destroy the lives of innocence. But who takes the major blame in this issue? The ones seeking to corrupt or those that allow it to take place? To whom does the millstone need to be tied to?

Proverbs 22:6 NKJV – Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.

Ephesians 6:4 NKJV – And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.

Deuteronomy 6:5-7 NKJV – You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. “And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.

The true answer? Both should have the millstone tied to them. For both have offended the children.

A child should never be exposed to those sins which dominate the minds of adults.

Matthew 15:19 NKJV – For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies.

They should experience a true and safe childhood. A childhood that includes learning the Bible and coming to understand the ways of the Lord. How to live a modest life. Not just in dress, but in livelihood as well. Always placing God first in all things and in all ways.

Since the removal of God from schools in 1962 multiple generations have been corrupted due to the failing of the parent to train their children as instructed within the Bible. There will be those that say they have. Yet they live in wealth and luxuries, which are opposite the teachings of the Bible. (Matthew 6:19-21) There will be those that say they sent their children to religious schools, not willing to see that they sent there not to learn of God, but how to act and live haughty. Again, counter to the teachings of the Bible for all these fancy expensive schools do is to teach a child to think greater of themselves than any should.

Proverbs 21:4 NLT – Haughty eyes, a proud heart, and evil actions are all sin.

Philippians 2:3 NKJV – Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself.

However, this has not been truly and fully taught for decades. Most now believe and think that great riches make and show who is a true “Christian.” But this is what we are told to teach our children:

Matthew 6:19-21 NKJV – “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

We are also to teach them this:

Mark 10:17-25 NKJV – Now as He was going out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him, and asked Him, “Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. You know the commandments: ‘DO NOT COMMIT ADULTERY,’ ‘DO NOT MURDER,’ ‘DO NOT STEAL,’ ‘DO NOT BEAR FALSE WITNESS,’ ‘Do not defraud,’ ‘HONOR YOUR FATHER AND YOUR MOTHER.'” And he answered and said to Him, “Teacher, all these things I have kept from my youth.” Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.” But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. Then Jesus looked around and said to His disciples, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!” And the disciples were astonished at His words. But Jesus answered again and said to them, “Children, how hard it is for those who trust in riches to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.”

What is even more important was to teach this lesson:

Matthew 22:34-40 NKJV – But when the Pharisees heard that He had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together. Then one of them, a lawyer, asked Him a question, testing Him, and saying, Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” Jesus said to him, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”

But no this is not taught to the children. Now people try to make them think they are not who they are. They sew confusion and destruction.

1 Corinthians 14:33 NKJV – For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.

How many children are confused and bewildered. Not just by their normal growing pains, but by also those that feed lies into their minds. Causing many a youth to seek death rather than live with the confusion. All because none truly taught them of the Creator of all.

I once was watching the movie “Samson and Delilah” and a young man entered the room with my youngest son and he asked what I was watching. I said the name and he replied with a questioning look. “Never heard of them.” Was his statement.

How many have grown with no knowledge at all of God and the teachings found within the Bible? How many have now made it clear that there are no Christian nations left in this world? Only modern civilizations filled with luxuries and comforts. Like fables of old. Like Atlantis, ancient China. Civilization tainted by lusts for greed and lusts of the flesh. All because the children were not taught as we are told to teach them. That this life we now live is not the true life to seek after, but only the proving ground to see if we are worthy of entering into that true and eternal life.

This is the truth. If they have no knowledge of those within the Bible and the lessons those people learned the hard way. What horrors they may have to endure to come into the realization that God is real, and Jesus Christ was as well. That He truly died upon the cross and on the third day rose from the dead to allow us all the ability to live for all eternity.

How many Sci-fi books have they read and movies as well as TV shows have they watched that taught of ascension into a higher being.

Yet they know nothing of the only Truth that has taught this very thing for centuries and is not a fable or a fairy tale but is a real and honest Truth.

All that is required is to ask Jesus Christ to be their Savior and to follow simple commandments by treating all other as they themselves desire to be treated.

That they read the Bible and come to understand that things people now do are not how they should live. For our greatest rewards are not found here in this temporal existence but in the eternity ahead of all of humanity.

That if they reject Christ and His Father that they will still live for all eternity but not in a new a perfect body, but in a body that will suffer in pain and anguish for just as long as those that are loyal to God.

We are to teach these children and get them to understand that it is not God punishing them, but themselves. For all are born in sin and must pay the prices for their sin.

That is why it is called “salvation.” For they are being saved from suffering for all eternity for their actions and thoughts. That it is due to being born in corruption that all are destine to this damnation and that it is only through accepting Christ as their Savior that they avoid this curse.

It is also making them to understand that just asking Christ to be their Savior is not enough. They must show their faith by living their belief. Living a simple live and not seeking after wealth and comforts. But living with the least of their income and giving the most to help in the spreading of the Word of God. For that is taught in these verses:

1 Timothy 6:6-10 NKJV – Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

As well as these verses a little later in this chapter:

1 Timothy 6:17-19 NKJV – Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

Time is running out. We must save as many children as possible. For those that have been tainted by adult sins will have to stay and suffer with the rest. They will not have the maturity to understand and will most likely choose the mark over Christ. This will be the ultimate betrayal to Christ to all those that should be in innocence to suffer the agony of the Lake of Fire for billions upon billions upon billions of year.

Bring them to God or start to prey for the millstone. For that is the fate that is coming for all the goats that choose to follow the antichrist.

God Bless

Blog for Podcast #139 (Abiding in Christ)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

One of the greatest sorrows that exists in today’s community that labels itself as “Christian,” is that within it there are so many that deny the Words spoken by Jesus Christ Himself.

Case in point:

John 15:1-6 NKJV – “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned.

This is a lesson about salvation. For Christ also said this just earlier:

John 14:6 NKJV – Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

What does it mean to “abide”

abide – G3306 – menó – to stay, remain, continue, dwell, endure

  1. dwell – to live in a place or in a particular way
    1. particular – distinguished or different from others or from the ordinary; noteworthy; marked; unusual.
  2. endure – to suffer something difficult, unpleasant, or painful.

As you can tell from these definition to “abide” is a complex word when it comes to following Jesus Christ. It is a word that truly needs to be understood. This is why studying the Word of God is so important. Not just reading it. For many read and due to a lack of understanding end up behaving in such a way that shows they do not abide in Him.

To remain in Him means to also to stay in the Word of God. It also means to take that Word in context. To believe that those that chose not to abide can be removed from the Vine who is Jesus Christ.

Early in my podcasts I did a study of the verses from John 15. I will not torture you with asking to listen to that. Therefore, I will bring out key facts from that study.

Point in case – Just in the four words (“I am the vine”) Jesus is showing that He is the true and divine vine, and no other can come to God except through being a branch upon His vine.

Simply only those that are upon the vine had accepted salvation. So, in all truth they are born again and attempt to abide in the teachings found within the Bible.

To become grafted onto the Vine, we must allow ourselves to be nurtured and at times pruned.

What does the word “prune” mean? In the KJV it is listed as “purgeth.”

 He purgeth – G2508 – kathairo – to cleanse, to prune, to expiate – purge

  1.  cleanse – to make something completely clean
  2. expiate – to show that you are sorry for bad behavior by doing something or accepting punishment
  3.  purge – to make someone or something free of something evil or harmful.
  4.  prune – to cut off unwanted branches from a tree, bush, or other plant.

This is a verification that those that are upon the Vine are saved, born again. Have received salvation.

With this insight in mind, we come to another level of understanding when we look at the word “abide.” That we are in fellowship with God through our Savior who is the Vine Jesus Christ.

By keeping Christ in us through the Holy Spirit and following the teachings given to us through the Bible we abide in Him as per His statement in these verses. We also see that God is also part of the relationship since He is the Vinedresser and when He finds those that are a part of the Vine and refuse to abide in Christ. It shows that they bear no fruit, and so are cut from the Vine by He who is the Vinedresser.

The Vinedresser otherwise known as God not only removes those that do not abide in His Son, the Vine. He also prunes or should I say cleanses those that do abide in His Son. Putting them through trails and tribulations as well as persecution. For part of the evidence that someone truly abides in Christ they suffer persecution.

2 Timothy 3:10-12 NKJV – But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra—what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me. Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.

Understand this. Especially now is those that truly seek after God will be persecuted.

I had an encounter today to verify this.

He posted a meme with one verse in it stating: “What does this mean?” in question to that verse.

I commented that when taken in context you would see the answer plainly and then provided the verses that went with the verse and it did answer the question.

The person replied to me that I was correct. Then for some reason he went off and stated that this is the issue he had with those that stated salvation can be lost.

I brought forward the verses in today’s study. I also gave a bit of personal testimony. The person’s reply was to say I wasn’t saved nor ever had been and that I needed to seek out God. He also made it impossible for me to continue to have a discussion with Him.

What does the Bible say?

 1 Timothy 6:3-5 NKJV – If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which accords with godliness, he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. From such withdraw yourself.

The person’s attitude was one of superiority otherwise known as haughtiness. What does the Bible say about this?

Romans 12:16 NKJV – Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.

“Do not be wise in your own opinion.”

This is a direct statement to seek true knowledge from the Scriptures and to pray that the Holy Spirit gives you discernment to the Truth of God.

I must confess that early in my faith I did fall prey to this weakness within humanity, but once I realized it and sought after true knowledge and understanding. It mainly comes from the Holy Spirit, but when mixed with a true understanding of the words as they were meant to be understood when they were first placed upon parchment adds to this understanding.

Also, when taking this verse into consideration we must understand that when those that take their own wisdom over that of God’s. Who are they placing first? The answer is simple. They are taking their understanding over that of God’s through the Holy Spirit and in so doing they are not honoring and worshipping God, but themselves.

But to get back on track.

We now understand that abiding in Christ is to reflect Christ. To live as Christ did. Simply and entrenched within the Word of God. Stiving to bear the fruits given by the Holy Spirit:

Galatians 5:22-23 NKJV – But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.

Ephesians 5:9 NKJV – (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth)

Philippians 1:9-11 NKJV – And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

With this knowledge we are to help others come to Christ through the great commission:

Matthew 28:18-20 NKJV – And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in my name, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

This is what bears fruit and honors God through Christ. It is not self-serving like those that teach the false and man-made doctrine of once saved always saved. Because that teaching does not work within the perimeters of abiding within Christ.

When abiding with Christ we suffer. We endure. While those that teach this false teaching of once saved always saved glorify the individual. Portraying themselves as if they are a god on earth. They glorify the presence of the Holy Spirit filling them as if it were an empowerment to seek after luxuries and rewards upon this earth. When we should feel fear. Fear that we would offend God in some form. For having the Holy Spirit within us and then sinning in essence blasphemes the Holy Ghost which is the only unforgivable sin. (Matthew 12:31-32) This may explain why the person that persecuted me by accusing me of not following the teachings of Christ, of him behaving in a haughty manner. The teaching within the Bible tells us to be humble to place others before ourselves. So that we can communicate with them in a loving manner so that they will accept true salvation. Seeking to honor God and to seek not earthly rewards, but rewards that we will receive in our eternal life yet to come.

Time is running out. We no longer have decades to fix our relationship with Christ. We have to get it right from the beginning. There is no time for false teachings. For those that embraced them will find themselves still here to suffer persecution that is on par with those that are suffering in Africa and the Middle East. Except it will be in every single nation across this globe. The mark or Christ. Live for a few years more or live an eternal life.

Don’t misunderstand. When we begin living eternally it will feel like now, be like now. The only difference will be in the service of God or in the Lake of fire. Honoring God upon the Throne or suffering in eternal agony. Both eternal, both in bodies that never die.

God Bless

Blog for Podcast #138 (Rejection)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

Mark 6:1-6 NKJV – Then He went out from there and came to His own country, and His disciples followed Him. And when the Sabbath had come, He began to teach in the synagogue. And many hearing Him were astonished, saying, “Where did this Man get these things? And what wisdom is this which is given to Him, that such mighty works are performed by His hands! Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us?” So they were offended at Him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country, among his own relatives, and in his own house.” Now He could do no mighty work there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them. And He marveled because of their unbelief. Then He went about the villages in a circuit, teaching.

Luke 4:16-30 NKJV – So He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up. And as His custom was, He went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up to read. And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written: “THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD IS UPON ME, BECAUSE HE HAS ANOINTED ME TO PREACH THE GOSPEL TO THE POOR; HE HAS SENT ME TO HEAL THE BROKENHEARTED, TO PROCLAIM LIBERTY TO THE CAPTIVES AND RECOVERY OF SIGHT TO THE BLIND, TO SET AT LIBERTY THOSE WHO ARE OPPRESSED; TO PROCLAIM THE ACCEPTABLE YEAR OF THE LORD.” Then He closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all who were in the synagogue were fixed on Him. And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” So all bore witness to Him, and marveled at the gracious words which proceeded out of His mouth. And they said, “Is this not Joseph’s son?” He said to them, “You will surely say this proverb to Me, ‘Physician, heal yourself! Whatever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in Your country.’ ” Then He said, “Assuredly, I say to you, no prophet is accepted in his own country. But I tell you truly, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elijah, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, and there was a great famine throughout all the land; but to none of them was Elijah sent except to Zarephath, in the region of Sidon, to a woman who was a widow. And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Elisha the prophet, and none of them was cleansed except Naaman the Syrian.” So all those in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath, and rose up and thrust Him out of the city; and they led Him to the brow of the hill on which their city was built, that they might throw Him down over the cliff. Then passing through the midst of them, He went His way.

I know firsthand what could have been going through Jesus’ mind when those that watched Him grow into manhood rejected Him.

I have tried to talk to my relations and those that worked with me. I have watched and listened as they remember the old me. The me that existed during my years of drinking milk. Not the solid food that comes with time from the study of the Word.

My relations are the worst, because they also remember the me that existed before entering into repentance. The me that had not taken up the cross. Had not started down the long and arduous journey of seeking sanctification.

As for taking up the cross. There have been different times as I learned different lessons upon the difficult and narrow path. Each time I take up the cross. Each time it is heavier, but I have learned it gets lighter when there is understanding given by the grace of the Holy Spirit.

What those that knew the old me don’t see or understand. That the person they assume me to be does not exist. That person died June 24th, 1984, but not fully. Pieces of the old me tries to return or die slowly.

I know of two times a particular sin that was attacking me died. Each sin different, each sin a sin that would guarantee my place in the lake of fire. Yet I know without question that it died for it has not plagued me since.

In one of the steps I took towards God through Jesus Christ. I came across a book published in 1692. It was entitled “The Gospel Mystery of Sanctification” by Walter Marshall. One of the things that astonished me the most is how much those seeking Christ today were exactly the same as those seeking after Christ then.

It is also through this that I came to respect those that founded the group that became known as the “Puritans.” The ones that fled to help in the establishment of the United States. When they landed at Plymouth Rock in 1620.

Marshall though was not amongst these for his troubles had to do with his struggles with the Church of England which made another of its steps to remove the true teachings of the Bible away from those that came into their churches. He refused to sign the Book of Homilies of 1662, which resulted in his parish being removed from him. His persecutions were along these lines.

We all should be experiencing some form of persecution. Be it rejection by our families or our co-workers. If we are not, are we truly following Christ? The answer is simple:

Matthew 5:10-12 NKJV – Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

2 Timothy 3:10-12 NKJV – But you have carefully followed my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, perseverance, persecutions, afflictions, which happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra—what persecutions I endured. And out of them all the Lord delivered me. Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.

John 15:18-24 NKJV – “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also. But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me. If I had not come and spoken to them, they would have no sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin. He who hates Me hates My Father also. If I had not done among them the works which no one else did, they would have no sin; but now they have seen and also hated both Me and My Father.

When those we love reject the Truth. Reject what we have to say for their sakes is painful. We question if our actions have hardened their hearts or was it something else. We know part of it was due to the old self that we use to be, but we are shocked that they refuse to see the new person before them.

In Christ we became new beings for we became born again. Sometimes it is immediate. Others it is a long and painful journey. The latter is more often, especially in today’s society. A society that per the Bible itself are not seeking after God but seeking after the world and he who runs it.

1 John 2:15-17 NLT – Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.

Luke 4:5-7 NKJV – Then the devil, taking Him up on a high mountain, showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. And the devil said to Him, “All this authority I will give You, and their glory; for this has been delivered to me, and I give it to whomever I wish. Therefore, if You will worship before me, all will be Yours.”

it is due to a lack of understanding of the Word of God. That is why it is so important to actually read the Bible for ourselves. Not taking the word of others. I even said this to my relations. I said “since you don’t believe me read the Bible for yourself.”

One came back at me saying the Bible was not the one written when the letters that became the New Testament were written. This is not the truth.

Of all the ancient documents in existence. The Bible is the only one to have thousands of copies in multiple languages. * When this is taken into account, and they are reviewed and verified. Only 2% of the Bible has changed in some form. That means it is the most accurate book in existence that is thousands of years old. How is this possible if God is not real.

Another excuse is that it was changed by the Catholic Church. My reply was the version of the New Testament we read is not Latin, but Greek. * What caused the Reformation to begin was due to the fact that it was the Greek copies of the Bible coming into Europe after the fall of Constantinople in 1453. That is why we use the Greek versions of the New Testament and not Latin. For the Latin was too corrupted to even be considered worthy by most scholars including Matin Luther. Which led to his posting of the 95 theses in 1517. Before 1611 it was illegal to even read the Bible for ourselves. As many that were martyred for doing so found out. All because those in power, mainly the Catholic Church, didn’t want the real Truth to come to light.

And what is this, Truth?

That we are not to seek after worldly rewards of any type. That if we are given earthly wealth, we are not to use it for our glory, but God’s and God’s alone.

1 Timothy 6:17-19 NKJV – Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

1 Timothy 6:6-10 NKJV – Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.

The greatest “wealth” a person should seek for on this earth is to seek after being a true reflection of Christ Jesus. To be satisfied to be fed, clothed and sheltered from the weather. All else is vain glory. You know that the word “vain” means “empty.”

False-Christs have now appeared. Major steps have been fulfilled to start the construction of the third and last temple. Very very soon Jesus Christ will appear and call those that are truly ready into the sky. Leaving most that thought they were following Christ behind. They will look up and see this happening in bewilderment and sorrow. Where is it you wish to be on that day? Do you wish to be with Christ at the wedding feast or on the outside of the door. Pounding upon it screaming “Let us in!” Only to hear Jesus Christ reply:

“Verily I say unto you, I know you not.”

God Bless 

* At this time there are over 5000 copies of the Bible, or the letters that form it, in Greek dating back to 50 to 60AD. There are over 10000 in Latin and Aramaic. However, these two language variations have many human faults within them. Which is why the Greek is used.